The COVID-19 outbreak has taken a huge toll on all of us. Take a look at this post in which we reflected on the death toll and economic impact as well as providing our post-partisan take on the government’s handling of the pandemic. These are uncertain times for all of us. And when uncertainty arises, anxiety is often quick to follow. The pandemic and subsequent lockdown have, quite understandably, precipitated spikes in anxiety and depression throughout the world. Still, as you grapple with the “new normal” it’s important to remember that you are not powerless. You can take control of your mental health and improve your psychological wellbeing by being proactive. 

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Here’s how…

Take control of your finances

Your household budget is a balance sheet of income and expenditure. You’ve likely taken a drop in income. But that doesn’t mean that you’re powerless to counteract it by addressing your expenditure. The best place to start is the kitchen. Get used to eating more wholefoods (especially fruits and veggies). Buy fresh when you can. Buy tinned, dried or frozen when you can’t. As you get used to batch cooking and meal planning you’ll be amazed by how much less you spend on food.

Don’t forget about your bills, either. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that you need to pay over the odds for your utilities, home or auto insurance. Start running some price comparisons now or investigate local providers and you might just be amazed by what you can save. What’s more, if you’re no longer using your car, you don’t necessarily have to go to the expense of insuring it. 

Make time for yourself

You’re likely sharing your home with the whole family. As a result, it’s likely feeling a whole lot smaller. It can feel as though everyone is getting under your feet, and inevitably cabin fever may set in. This is why it’s so vital that you (and everyone else in the household) make time for yourself. Remember that you still can, and should go outside to get some fresh air. Take a walk, sit in the park and read a book for an hour. Play some video games or watch a movie by yourself if it helps you unwind but be wary of spending all day in front of a screen. 

Make time for yourself and you’ll return to your family happier and better adjusted with more perspective on your problems. 

Eat more plants, and less of everything else

Fruits, veggies, grains and pulses are packed with nutrients and phytochemicals to keep your body in tip top shape and your immune system ready for battle. However, studies suggest that a vegetarian diet also helps to boost your mood and reduce stress. Not to mention saving you money. So load up on plant based foods and steer clear of anything processed where possible.

Think about supplements

Supplements, so long as they’re natural and not processed, may be something to look into. Herbal supplements and oils, such as CBD oil, may be possibilities, too. Sites like Blessed CBD can provide more information about cbd oil and natural supplements, as well as a good range of products to choose from.

Exercise in whatever way works best for you

Finally, exercise can be a tremendous boon when trying to stay positive and alleviate stress. Exercise floods the brain with endorphins- the body’s feel good chemicals. Furthermore, the idea of wowing people with the new, leaner and healthier you once the lockdown is lifted can be a powerful motivator. 

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